The Le’Veon Bell holdout is not expected to end by the time the Steelers suit up for their third preseason game, which is Saturday night against the Colts. But the running back still plans to return before the regular season.

While Bell is expected to avoid a return in time for this exhibition contest, a source who spoke to ESPN.com’s Jeremy Fowler revealed it would be surprising if he stayed away much longer due to his “love for football.” The timing of the franchise-tagged runner’s holdout points to Bell skipping preseason play.

Just more than two weeks remain between the third Steelers preseason game and their September 10 opener in Cleveland. Offensive coordinator Todd Haley having been in place for Bell’s entire tenure in Pittsburgh shouldn’t make many pre-Week 1 reps necessary for the 25-year-old, though.

Bell is attached to a $12.12MM cap number once he signs his tender and returns to the Steelers. Missing games would mean forfeiting a prorated portion of that amount, which is by far a league-high for running backs this season.

Am I wrong thinking this guy hasn’t even played a full season in a few years? Multiple suspensions I think? Injuries previous? If I’m correct, what makes him think he deserves a new contract? Let him behave himself off the field and on for a few years first.

“Love for football” might be the funniest/stupidest reasons. If he really loved football he would’ve been back already at least practicing with his teammates. His “holdout” was more about him skipping the preseason than him trying to make a statement to get more money. I mean I kind of agree that it should keep him more fresh, but recent history also shows that when running backs hold out (albeit usually for legitimate monetary issues) they usually don’t play well during that season.

I assume he’s not really in tune with the steeler way. He needs to send a text to previous Steelers who want to get paid more then they were worth. Plaxico, Randle El, Mike Wallace, the list goes on. Hate to c him leave. But he’s not worth a significant number with his injury/suspension record.

He might get 15 million just not in Pittsburgh. He is a great player when he is on the field but hasn’t proven to be available during crunch run. Hurt or suspended does not equal 15 million. If the Steelers can let Franco go then Bell is about to be rung! Steelers don’t play that game. Turned down 60 million over 5 years with 30-49 guaranteed? Come on man! Get to camp